iStock/Thinkstock(SACRAMENTO, Calif.) -- California Gov. Jerry Brown predicted a domino effect across the nation after signing a law on Thursday that will permit undocumented immigrants to get state driver's licenses.

It's believed that by allowing them to drive, people living illegally in California will feel compelled to emerge from "the shadows" of fearing deportation as well as assisting the state's still weakened economy because they'll be more easily able to travel to work.

Brown says if millions register for driver's licenses, "The rest of this country will have to stand up and take notice."

It remains a controversial issue throughout the U.S. as many are opposed to giving undocumented immigrants the right to drive, claiming it sanctions their illegal residence in the U.S.

Under the law, which formally takes effect a year from now, the special permits will be required to carry the notation "DP," for driving privilege, to distinguish them from regular driver's licenses.

The permit will also read, "This card is not acceptable for official federal purposes. This license is issued only as a license to drive a motor vehicle. It does not establish eligibility for employment, voter registration or public benefits."